(Washington, D.C.) – “I am encouraged by the recommendations of the Federal Education Commission on School Safety, and its integrated focus on education, health, justice and security to stop the tragedies and school violence that have plagued our nation for too long.

The commission’s guidelines will serve to make our schools safer, protect our most vulnerable students from harm and empower teachers to keep their schools safe.

“For example, the report calls for more action in forming character in our students, addressing critical mental health needs head on, calls out pernicious games and failed discipline policies. Specifically, the commission’s recommendation to reverse Obama-era guidance on school discipline is particularly noteworthy. The 2014 guidelines let violent students off the hook for endangering their peers, presumed our nation’s teachers and schools are not objective or thoughtful enough to make their own assessments about student behavior and needed responses.”

“The commission’s report is an important first step to making our schools safe, fair and equal. The Trump administration should accept the commission’s recommendations and allow schools to create fair discipline policies that keep students safe from harm.”

About the Center for Education Reform

Founded in 1993, the Center for Education Reform aims to expand educational opportunities that lead to improved economic outcomes for all Americans — particularly our youth — ensuring that the conditions are ripe for innovation, freedom and flexibility throughout U.S. education.

As a non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to great opportunities for all children, students and families, CER does not endorse candidates or take political positions but will always recognize and applaud those who advance sound education policies, no matter what their affiliation.